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Politics is never far from the surface at the Olympics. Even at the so-called friendly Games in Melbourne in 1956, the famous 'Blood in the Water' water-polo match reflected tensions surrounding the Soviet invasion of Hungary ten days before.

The torch relay protests unexpectedly strengthened aggressive nationalism, as the Chinese people swung behind the government and its Olympic aspirations. Sport and politics will combine in weeks to come, making for interesting viewing.

Apophatic theology emphasises
what we do not know about the great mysteries. Sweet Sorrow is a map for the mystery of death, but just as maps of old warned
'here there be dragons', this account cautions, 'here there
be questions'.

In both the Olympic Games and the Catholic Church's World Youth Day, young people advance ideals that could benefit the world. It should not surprise if people committed to international understanding are also committed to universal human rights.

The modern Olympic torch relay was initiated by the Nazi
leadership in 1936 to uphold the image of the Third Reich as a dynamic and
expanding influence. Those who extinguished the Beijing torch in protest against human rights violations in Tibet recognise its origins and potency as a political symbol.

Kevin Rudd's China visit is proceeding brilliantly. But by announcing Australia's interest in a Security Council candidacy to the UN Secretary-General, he may have shown his hand before Australia is able to undo the damage the previous government did to our reputation in the
UN.

The great hope for the Beijing Olympics was that it would persuade China's government that human rights protection is good diplomacy and good business. The power of persuasion would be lost if conscience-bound competitors are prevented from commenting.

China's role in Burma is pivotal. Under a Rudd Government, Australia
would have the expertise and standing to persuade China that its
interests lie in persuading Burma's generals to soften their opposition
to democracy. From 18 October 2007.

– China's role in Burma is pivotal. Under a Rudd Government, Australia would have the expertise and standing to persuade China that its interests lie in persuading Burma's generals to soften their opposition to democracy.